Bam Adebayo warns of Pat Riley ringing in changes in Miami after lopsided series exit
Bam Adebayo has warned of changes to the Miami Heat in the offseason after their four-game sweep against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Heat were no match for the Cavaliers, especially in the two games at the Kaseya Center, where they were blown out by a total of 92 points.
In his postgame press conference, Adebayo told reporters that Heat president Pat Riley would be making some tough decisions to improve the team ahead of next season. Riley has been Miami's team president for 30 years.
"There's going to be a lot of changes this summer," Adebayo said. "Just from my point of view, understanding how the guy with the silver hair works. Just be prepared for that."
From 2:15 onward:
Bam Adebayo had 13 points and 12 rebounds in the 138-83 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4. The 55-point margin was the largest deficit in a series-clinching game in NBA history.
It was also the third-largest margin of victory in NBA playoff history, making it an eye-opening result for Pat Riley and the Heat.
They have a good core of Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Andrew Wiggins. They also have some young prospects in Nikola Jovic, Kel'el Ware and Pelle Larsson. However, they have a long way to go before they can become contenders again.
The Heat's season was defined by the Jimmy Butler saga, culminating in his trade to the Golden State Warriors. Butler flourished in the Bay Area, while Miami struggled and barely made it to the postseason.
Bam Adebayo has a long-term contract with Miami Heat
Pat Riley has a lot of thinking to do in the offseason. The Miami Heat could continue to build around their core of Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo and Andrew Wiggins, or begin a rebuild and get as many assets as possible.
Herro and Adebayo have the most value in terms of trade, with the athletic big man likely more prized due to his age, size, skill and overall package. However, he's signed until the 2028-29 NBA season, with a player option in his final year.
One thing the Heat have going in their favor is that they remain a free agent destination due to their weather and having no income tax. Several NBA stars are likely to become available this offseason, so the trade market is also an option.